Governor Bhalla said the Durand Cup represents more than a football competition, describing it as a symbol of history, resilience and national unity
KRC TIMES Manipur Bureau
IMPHAL | Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Wednesday unveiled the trophies of the 135th Durand Cup 2026 at a ceremony held at the City Convention Centre, marking the formal arrival of Asia’s oldest football tournament in the state ahead of the Group D fixtures.
The event, organised jointly by the Indian Armed Forces and the Manipur government, featured the display of the tournament’s three iconic trophies – the President’s Cup, the Durand Cup and the Simla Trophy. The trophies are currently on a nationwide tour after being flagged off by President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre earlier this month.
Earlier in the day, a trophy procession was organised from Sendra in Bishnupur district as part of the tournament’s promotional campaign in Manipur.
Imphal is set to host the Group D matches of the Durand Cup at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium from July 28 to August 12, bringing top-level domestic football action back to the state.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Bhalla said the Durand Cup represents more than a football competition, describing it as a symbol of history, resilience and national unity. Highlighting Manipur’s strong football tradition, he expressed confidence that the tournament would inspire young athletes and provide aspiring footballers with a valuable platform to showcase their talent.
He also lauded the Indian Armed Forces for bringing the prestigious tournament back to Manipur, stating that the initiative would help promote peace, strengthen social harmony and contribute to ongoing efforts to restore normalcy in the state.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh said football holds a special place in Manipur’s sporting culture and thanked the Armed Forces for hosting the tournament in the state. Reaffirming the government’s support for the event, he said the matches would not only enhance sports infrastructure but also generate economic opportunities and increase national exposure for local footballers.
The ceremony was attended by Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, Director General of Police Rajiv Singh, Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, Chief of Staff of the Eastern Command Lt Gen Gambhir Singh, General Officer Commanding Red Shield Division Maj Gen Shubhankar Basu, Inspector General Assam Rifles (South) Maj Gen Gaurav Sharma, and other senior civil, police and military officials.
